Woodhouse's Toad

Bufo woodhousii

This is the toad commonly seen at night catching insects beneath lights. Occasionally it is active during the day, but more frequently remains in its burrow or hides in vegetation. After rains these toads breed in shallow water that may last for only a few weeks. Their eggs, laid in long strings, hatch into jet black tadpoles that feed in warm shallow water and develop very quickly.

Look For : A plump brown, gray, or greenish toad with a light line down the center of its back. Resembles American Toad but has a more pointed snout and often has prominent dark blotches on its back. Call sounds like "waaaaah" and lasts 1 to 3 seconds.

Length : 2 1/2-4 1/2".

Habitat : Varied, from river bottoms to mountain canyons.

Range : Widespread in U.S.; separated populations in far West.